SRAM to launch 11-speed ‘Red 22′ group, hydraulic brakes

An early version of SRAM's road disc calipers were spotted on Tim Johnson's cyclocross bike over the winter. The group they go with will be debuted this month. Photo: Wil Matthews | VeloNews.com

ANTWERP, Belgium (VN) — SRAM will jump on the 11-speed bandwagon by the end of this month, debuting two new high-end groups with 11-speed rear shifting dubbed Red 22 and Force 22. Production on Red 22 will begin in April with Force ramping up a month later, and availability is expected by mid summer.

The Chicago-based company posted a brief video early on Monday, April fools day, showing only an 11-speed cassette with cryptic flashes of the number 22. VeloNews has obtained Model Year 2014 product overviews through multiple industry sources, confirming many the details of the new groups, which is set to be officially debuted shortly before the Sea Otter Classic in mid-April.

Along with the move to 11 rear cogs, the SRAM will debut a number of new hydraulic and mechanical disc brakes, as well as a Red-level hydraulic rim brake.

The new disc offerings include a top-tier Red 22 HyrdoR caliper, budget-friendly hydraulic DB1 and DB3 calipers, and a new mechanical BB7S caliper with an anodized black finish.

The shift system will remain cable actuated, despite rumors of a move to an electronic- or hydraulic-actuated system.

The all-new Force 22 group, which will also be 11-speed, will be available exclusively with a new dual-pivot mechanical rim brake, leaving the hydraulic brake systems to SRAM’s top tier. A 10-speed hydraulic shifter will be made available, designed for SRAM’s current 2×10 road drivetrains.

Caley Fretz

Associate Editor Caley Fretz can be found chasing races along the backroads of Europe or testing bikes and gear in the mountains outside Boulder, Colorado. If you can't find him there, check the coffee shop across from VN World Headquarters.